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HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections while AIDS is a stage of HIV infection when the immune system is severely damaged, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of the disease.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, or fungi that can be passed between people through sexual contact. STIs can also be transmitted through infected blood or blood products, during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system.

HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system. This makes it easier to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, other viral or bacterial infections and some cancers. HIV is spread from the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen and vaginal fluids. It is not spread by saliva, sweat, tears, or urine, or any casual contact like hugs, kisses, or sharing food. It can sometimes spread from a mother to her baby during the birthing process.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, around 19 million people will become infected with an STI this year. A large portion of gonorrhea and chlamydia infections are asymptomatic, but will cause organ damage or failure if left untreated. Syphilis can also go unnoticed while it's able to cause damage to various biological structures and processes. Likewise, HIV and Hepatitis C often go on without symptoms for years until they've done a lot of damage to the immune system or liver, respectively. Getting tested often means you'll catch any infections and prevent them from causing more harm than they need to. Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Syphilis, and Hepatitis C can be cured, and HIV can be kept in check with a simple one-pill-a-day treatment You’ll be taking an important step to protect your sexual health and the health of your partners, too.

Appointments can be made by calling 570-829-2700 or using our online scheduler.

We can help clients access medication for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis. We also can assist those living with HIV so they can receive anti-retroviral medications.

We provide assessments for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, herpes, HIV, hepatitis C (HCV), and additional STIs.

Many of our services are free or low-cost, however we do accept most major insurances. Some additional screenings may have fees.

For PrEP services, Caring Communities can help you find payment assistance options if you do not have insurance or the ability to pay privately.

Caring Communities is a HIPAA-covered entity. As such, we follow strict guidelines when it comes to using client's health information. You can find our complete Notice of Privacy Practices at the bottom of the page.

Yes! Our completely confidential services are offered to all qualified individuals, regardless of their immigration status.

We are pleased to provide optional, free Mental Health Counseling services for all our case management clients. Individual and group counseling sessions are available.

Individuals who are living with HIV and who are homeless or at the risk of becoming homeless may be eligible for a variety of housing services, such as emergency housing assistance, mortgage assistance, help with first month’s rent and security deposit, transitional housing, and more! Please contact our Case Management Services at 570-413-4782 for more information.